The first Chet Kingery Memorial Bluegrass Festival was held on May 18, 2013 at Rockome Gardens. Its name was deemed and honored in memory of a great local bluegrass musician, Chet Kingery, who passed away in 1998. Chet Kingery played guitar with his band, Chet Kingery and the Knights of Bluegrass.

Mackville is the host band for this festival. We are excited and proud to bring you this fantastic lineup of talent to this year’s festival. Come and enjoy great music! We will be performing as well as the other bands listed below.

2025 Lineup
The Grascals
Special Consensus
The Little Roy & Lizzie Show
The Price Sisters
KINGS HIGHWAY

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Galesburg is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a fan of small-town charm, Galesburg offers something for everyone.

Begin your journey at the Carl Sandburg State Historic Site, the birthplace of the famed poet and historian. Explore his childhood home, a museum showcasing his works, and the serene grounds that inspired much of his writing. Next, dive into the city’s rich railroading history at the Galesburg Railroad Museum, conveniently located next the Galesburg Amtrak Station, where you’ll find fascinating artifacts, vintage train cars, and exhibits celebrating the city’s pivotal role in America’s railroads.

For a taste of local culture, stroll through the Seminary Street Historic District, where charming boutiques, unique eateries, and historic architecture converge. Just a block away, catch a show at [...]

Hike, bike, boat, fish, and more – 11,000 water acres, 172 miles wooded shoreline, sheltered coves and sandy beaches provide the perfect destination! Four public beaches, trails to hike or bike, picnic sites, playgrounds, and lakeside golf course provide recreational activities. Sportsman can enjoy fishing and hunting opportunities as well.

Cabins, motels and vacation rentals, five Federal campgrounds, two State parks will accommodate and make you comfortable for a night or more.

Seven Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area wayside exhibits, highlight Abraham Lincoln’s time in Shelby County, and learn more in nearby Springfield. Enjoy the area as you break for a snack, drink, meal, or visit historic sites, 3 wineries, antique, craft and specialty shopping, along with year-round events and festivals; and our restored Historic Chautauqua Auditorium listed on the National Historic Register.

Questions or request a stay & [...]

In the Jacksonville, Illinois, area, uncover the legends that helped define life in Central Illinois as we know it today. Tales of Illinois’ frontier days reverberate throughout the halls at the remarkably preserved Governor Duncan Mansion, as do the harrowing accounts of people escaping the chains of slavery and those who aided their quest for freedom at the city’s Underground Railroad sites. A legendary past flawlessly blends with new investment taking place around our gorgeous downtown square, where new, independently owned businesses occupy storefronts that have stood over the city for generations – monuments to a storied past now fostering a thriving present and an exciting future.

In the long history of the Jacksonville, Illinois, area, we’ve been molded by such trailblazers whose ingenuity came to define the region, evidenced in the magnificent, stately homes standing over State Street leading to our gorgeous town square. [...]

Located in Central Illinois, where Interstates 57 and 70 meet, Effingham offers the perfect centralized location to connect with yourself and the people you love. With 17 hotels to unwind at, more than 70 restaurants to indulge in, and countless things to see and do… you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave.

We invite you to take the day off – or better yet, take the whole weekend – and discover what makes this Midwestern getaway so irresistible to travelers from all walks of life. Our community is a haven for those looking to ‘fill their cup’ – both in the metaphorical sense and the literal.

Start your day with a refreshing walk on the TREC Trail, a scenic path that winds through Effingham’s Midwestern landscape, providing a peaceful escape for outdoor lovers. After your walk, stop by Joe Sippers [...]